The best tinted sunscreens 2025: A flawless, sun-damage-protected complexion exists

Beauty editors test literally hundreds of products over the course of our careers, many of them unnecessary/weird mashups. So I was a bit skeptical when I was assigned this story on best tinted sunscreens. I thought: Isn't face sunscreen on its own more beneficial? Isn't tinted sunscreen just makeup with an SPF afterthought? Am I turning into the beauty world's Andy Rooney? Why does every product in 2025 have to do two jobs? As it turns out, my skepticism was completely misguided: "Tinted sunscreens can be especially beneficial for mature skin as they not only provide necessary sun protection but also even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of imperfections," says Los Angeles-based facial plastic surgeon Dr. Kay Durairaj (or Dr. Kay, as she is affectionately known to her legions of Instagram fans). Turns out, tinted sunscreens have significant value for everyone, and older faces in particular. To understand why, it helps to know a few foundational facts about sun protection itself.

How do tinted sunscreens work? There are two main types of sunscreen — mineral and chemical. Chemical sunscreens, which contain FDA-approved chemicals that absorb into the skin and act as a kind of sponge for harmful rays; and mineral sunscreens, which use literal minerals like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to create a physical shield that protects skin from UV light (they're also referred to as "physical" sunscreens). Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are potent white mineral powders that stubbornly will not dissolve in water or oil, which is why, when you use them, they leave behind that unpleasant-ghostly white film or "cast." Enter the "tint" of tinted sunscreens, which is not so much about covering facial blemishes, like, say, a concealer stick would, but more about eradicating the white cast/chalkiness sun-blocking minerals leave on a face. Most tinted sunscreens are mineral SPF, with a sheer tint that's often considered "universal" (though still may appear too light for deeper tones). Many tinted sunscreens additionally contain antioxidants and skin-healing ingredients like vitamin E.

If you're looking for more on SPF protection, make sure to also check out my recommendations for the best body sunscreens and the best sunscreens for sensitive skin, along with our top favorite reef-safe sunscreens of the year.

Table of contents

Update, April 16, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability and expanded our section on factors to consider before purchasing. Our number one pick for the best tinted sunscreen remains unchanged.

The best tinted sunscreen overall

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Other top tinted sunscreens we recommend for 2025

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Factors to consider when choosing a tinted sunscreen

• SPF: Most dermatologists recommend looking for sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher for the best sun protection.
  

• Formula: As we mentioned above, there are two main categories of sunscreen, chemical and mineral. Either formula is fine, but most dermatologists recommend that those with sensitive skin use a mineral formula. Additionally, while most sunscreens come in liquid form, you can actually find a few stick sunscreens that work great for on the go.
  

• Ingredients: It’s an added benefit if your sunscreen contains moisturizing ingredients like vitamin E or antioxidants to help prevent further skin damage.
  

• Water resistance: If you will be sweating or swimming (or otherwise getting wet), a water-resistant sunscreen can give you a bit of insurance. Water-resistant sunscreens will be labeled as such and will also typically indicate how long they will remain effective as you swim or sweat. Still plan to reapply after toweling off and at least every two hours, regardless.
  

• Reef safe: Mineral sunscreens labeled as "non-nano" with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are the safest bet for reefs. Avoid chemical sunscreens with oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can bleach coral. Also, steer clear of octocrylene, homosalate and parabens, which can harm coral. Sunscreens are often labeled as "reef-safe" if they are free of coral harming ingredients.
  

• Cruelty-free: If you want to avoid all animal products and testing, choose a tinted sunscreen labeled as vegan. For cruelty-free options, look for certifications like Leaping Bunny or PETA's "Beauty Without Bunnies" logo.

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FAQs

Are tinted sunscreens safe?

Yes! Most tinted sunscreens are actually mineral sunscreens, which many dermatologists prefer for both sensitive and mature skin — especially on our faces. "In my opinion, mineral sunscreens are the best sunscreens because they reflect UV rays off the skin without relying on a chemical to do so," says Dr. Kay. "Mineral sunscreens provide a barrier that is less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions, making them ideal for sensitive and mature skin types."

How do I use a tinted sunscreen?

Tinted sunscreens are used exactly like regular sunscreens. First, you choose a tinted sunscreen from a reputable company — preferably, one with SPF 30 or higher, with broad spectrum protection. The pigment added should offer sheer, light-to-medium makeup coverage, and be subtle enough that you can apply a recommended full teaspoon to your face without looking like a clown.

Additionally: "Look for tinted sunscreens that contain iron oxides, which offer protection against visible light and can help prevent the exacerbation of pigmentation issues like melasma," says Dr. Kay, whose own KD Skin Mineral Glow Sun Defense contains iron oxides which additionally, she says, help it blend into the skin and never look chalky, ashy or white (making it suitable for darker skin types too).

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Best tinted sunscreen specs comparison chart

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Meet our expert

• Dr. Kay Durairaj, Los Angeles-based facial plastic surgeon